"Humanitarian Bridges" as Investments: Anna Bezdudnaya on Why Culture and Education Have Become Part of the Economic Agenda

The successful experience of the 2nd Eurasian Financial and Economic Forum in Shanghai (April 19–23, 2026) has largely shaped the approach to forming the agenda for upcoming events organized by the Financial and Business Association of Euro-Asian Cooperation. One of the key episodes that set this vector was the humanitarian session "Humanitarian Bridges of Eurasia," moderated by Anna Bezdudnaya, General Director of FBA EAC and Editor-in-Chief of the FBA EAC Journal. As the head of the Association, which brings together entrepreneurs, financiers, and scientists, she views this experience from two perspectives: both as an organizer of business platforms and as a participant in international dialogue.

We asked Anna Bezdudnaya why the humanitarian track found itself at the center of an economic forum, and received an expert perspective on why culture, education, and diplomacy are transforming into investments, contracts, and long-term trust.

The 2nd Eurasian Financial and Economic Forum in Shanghai took place at a time when the world is experiencing tectonic shifts, and economic and political contours are changing before our very eyes. Yet it is precisely the humanitarian sphere that remains the foundation upon which long-term trust between nations rests. Today, the question is more relevant than ever: what binds the vast Eurasian expanse — from the Pacific to the Atlantic, from the Arctic to the Indian Ocean?

The answer is obvious — it is the people, their culture, education, history, and, most importantly, a shared understanding of the future.

The humanitarian track at the Shanghai Forum served as a "bridge" to overcome barriers, fostering dialogue where there was once silence, and cooperation where there were once borders. Today, when many forces seek to destroy these bridges by erecting walls of misunderstanding and sanctions, our task is not only to preserve existing bridges but also to build new ones.

What do we mean by the concept of "Humanitarian Bridges of Eurasia"?

1. Education without barriers. Student exchanges, mutual recognition of diplomas, and joint research. Knowledge knows no nationality.
2. The cultural core. Joint exhibitions, theater tours, film festivals, and literary translations. It is precisely through art that we come to understand the soul of our neighbor.
3. Historical memory. We share a common past — marked by great achievements and tragic chapters. History cannot be rewritten to suit political expediency; we can only safeguard the truth together.
4. Shared challenges. Environmental protection, healthcare, and the fight against historical falsification and extremism. Threats do not ask for a visa — we must respond to them collectively.

Therefore, culture, education, and diplomacy are not merely a "superstructure" over the economy, but its fundamental investments and drivers. Their common essence lies in creating "soft power" — the ability to influence others not through coercion, but through the appeal of one's values and image.

This connection manifests itself in three key aspects:

1. Diplomacy as a "bridge" for contracts — diplomacy turns intentions into tangible agreements. Embassies and consulates do more than manage protocol; they create the conditions for business and humanitarian engagement.
2. Education as a "long-term contract" — educational diplomacy works proactively: it builds networks of trust between universities and businesses, which are often more resilient than traditional diplomacy. The economic effect lies in investing in future talent and long-term ties.
3. Culture as a "brand" and "magnet" for investment — it creates an attractive national image, and a positive reputation translates directly into tourism, exports, and investment. The economic effect is that investments in "soft power" yield a return of at least sixfold. Today, culture is becoming an integral part of trade agreements and a mandatory component of major economic treaties.

In conclusion, culture, education, and diplomacy are economic assets that operate on multiple levels:

· Short-term: direct contracts. 
· Medium-term: growth in tourism and exports.
· Long-term: building trust and human capital.

They transform money and contracts from one-off transactions into sustainable and mutually beneficial partnerships.